Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has emphasized his administration’s dedication to the welfare of civil servants, asserting that salary payments are a government responsibility, not a favor. Speaking to journalists after observing the Eid-el-Kabir prayer in his Okene hometown, Ododo reiterated the importance of fulfilling government duties to ensure a productive and content workforce.
“We are doing what we are supposed to do as a government for the people of Kogi State, especially the civil servants. When your people are happy, they will be excited to engage in their duties and do their job diligently, thereby increasing productivity. It is part of our responsibilities to take care of our people, and we are doing it with the help of God and with the support of Mr. President,” said Ododo.
Addressing security concerns, Governor Ododo warned criminals to steer clear of Kogi State, highlighting the recent abduction incident involving students from the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara. He stated that the kidnappers, who intended to challenge his administration’s resolve, faced severe consequences.
“They came to test the waters, to find out what our reactions would be, and truly, they faced the consequences of their actions. Kogi is not a fertile land for anybody to come and trade free in terms of crimes and criminality. They have come and seen the results; if they come back in their numbers, they will go back in their zeros. I can’t tell you what awaits them, but I hope they will never try it again,” Ododo asserted.
The governor reported that 29 out of the 31 kidnapped CUSTECH students were successfully rescued, although tragically, two students were killed by their abductors. He prayed for the deceased and extended his condolences to their families.
“Security is one of our top priorities and responsibilities in Kogi, which is why we are doing everything possible with the support of Mr. President to make sure that every soul in this state is protected and secured,” Ododo said, expressing his gratitude to security agencies, vigilantes, and hunters for their collaborative efforts.
Governor Ododo also commended President Tinubu for his national efforts and urged Nigerians to support the president’s initiatives to overcome the current economic challenges. He called on the people of Kogi and Nigeria to pray for their leaders and extend kindness to the less privileged during the Sallah celebration.
“It is a period that encompasses sacrifice and submission to the will of God Almighty. I urge everyone to continue to be good ambassadors of our dear state and the country at large,” Ododo concluded.
